Birch Gold Group Review
Overview
Birch Gold Group has been helping investors diversify with precious metals since 2003, earning a solid reputation for personalized service and strong educational resources. The company specializes in gold, silver, platinum, and palladium IRAs, giving clients more options than some competitors. Birch emphasizes a straightforward process for rolling over retirement accounts and provides a dedicated specialist to guide each customer. They are well-rated with the BBB and other consumer organizations, and often praised for clear communication.
Why We Like
- Reputation & Trust: Birch Gold Group has been in business since 2003 and holds strong ratings from the BBB, BCA, and Trustpilot, building credibility over two decades.
- Wide Range of Metals: Unlike some competitors, Birch offers gold, silver, platinum, and palladium, giving investors more diversification options.
- Personalized Service: Each client is paired with a dedicated specialist who provides one-on-one guidance throughout the IRA rollover and investment process.
- Educational Resources: The company offers free information kits, market insights, and ongoing support to help investors make informed decisions.
- Flexibility: With a lower entry point than some rivals — typically around $10,000–$25,000 — Birch appeals to both new and more established retirement investors.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Established Reputation – Over two decades in business (founded in 2003) with strong ratings from the BBB, BCA, and Trustpilot.
- Wide Range of Metals – Offers gold, silver, platinum, and palladium — more variety than many competitors.
- Flexible Minimums – Lower entry point compared to Augusta Precious Metals or Goldco, with accounts starting as low as $5,000.
- Buyback Program – Offers customers the ability to sell metals back when needed
Cons
- Fees Not Listed Online – Annual maintenance and storage costs are not published upfront.
- No Online Ordering – Metals must be purchased through a representative — not as convenient for self-directed investors.
- Storage Partner Restrictions – Limited to Birch’s chosen custodians and depositories, reducing flexibility.
Terms and Fees
Birch Gold Group requires a minimum investment of $5,000–$25,000, depending on the type of account, making it more accessible than some competitors. The company partners with trusted custodians such as Equity Trust and STRATA Trust, along with IRS-approved depositories for secure storage. Typical costs include a $50 one-time setup fee, a $30 wire transfer fee, and an annual maintenance fee of about $80. Storage fees generally run $100 for non-segregated or $150 for segregated storage per year. While Birch doesn’t publish its full fee schedule directly on the website, representatives provide detailed breakdowns during the account setup process.
Setup, annual, and depository fees depend on the custodian and the company where the metals are stored. Costs are subject to change and are an estimate. Always check with the company for current fees.
Minimum IRA Investment: | $5,000 |
|---|---|
Metals Available: | gold, silver |
Custodian Setup Fees: | $50 |
Wire Fees: | $30 |
Maintenance Fees: | $80 |
Depository Storage Fee: | $100-$150/year |
Alternatives
Gold IRA Companies | |  |  |
|---|---|---|---|
Minimum Deposit | $5,000 | $10,000 | $25,000 |
Metals Available | gold, silver, platinum, palladium | gold, silver, platinum, palladium | gold, silver |
Final Verdict
Birch Gold Group is a solid option for investors who want more flexibility and choice in their precious metals IRA. With over 20 years of experience, a wide selection that includes gold, silver, platinum, and palladium, and strong customer service, Birch appeals to retirement savers seeking diversification beyond just gold and silver. Their lower entry point compared to firms like Augusta makes them more accessible, while still offering the security of established custodians and IRS-approved storage. However, fees aren’t fully transparent online and require direct consultation, which may deter investors who prefer upfront clarity. Overall, Birch is best suited for those who value variety, personalized service, and a balance between affordability and trust.
Facts & Figures
- Legal Name: Birch Gold Group, LP.
- Year Founded: 2003
- Headquarters: 309 Court Avenue, Suite 809, Des Moines, IA 50309
- CEO: Laith Alsarraf
- Stock Ticker: N/A (private company)
- Trustpilot Rating: 4.5
- BBB Rating: A+
